On February 2, 1928, Lewis Z “Sam” Whaley was born to the parentage of Lucious Whaley and Eria Rusk.
Sam united with St. James Free Will Baptist Church at an early age and attended school at the St. James Church School.
Sam was an avid fisherman and hunter. He was a jokester and a great dancer. He worked for Snider Mills and logged wood with his great mentor, Ced Thomas. He retired from the industry after obtaining his own logging service.
Sam was preceded in death by the love of his life, Willie Mae; his parents, one brother, three children; Emma, Donald Ray and Rhonda; two grandsons, Kenneth Keith and Lee Arthur.
Sam leaves love and precious memories in the hearts of his children: Six sons; Herman Sr., Perry, Melvin, Robert, Terry and Kenneth (Latricia). Four daughters; Jean (Clint), Crystal, Christine and Cassie. One brother, Walter (Ruth) Miles; 33 grandchildren, 38 great-grandchildren and 12 great great-grandchildren; a special cousin, Ingrid Williams; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.